Raytheon Anschütz debuts ECDIS NX

ECDIS NX software, a new electronic chart display and information system, has been launched by Raytheon Anschütz at Nor-Shipping 2017 in Oslo. Based on the results of Raytheon Anschütz’s gathering of information and feedback from user workshops, the SYNAPSIS ECDIS NX offers an intuitive user interface, clearly structured display with consistent operational concepts, and ‘smart’ functionality to simplify processes and routines aboard ships as part of its state-of-the-art design. Type approval for the software has been granted in May 2017 in accordance with the latest ECDOS standards.

“We decided that navigators, the day-to-day user experts, should directly influence software design. So our objective was not only to explicitly consider the human element in all stages of software design, but to create a new portfolio of bridge navigation applications for seafarers with input from seafarers,” explains Björn Schröder, product manager for ECDIS.

The results are an ECDIS NX which is available stand-alone in Q3 2017, with full Integrated Navigation Systems (INS) integration available from end of the year. The ECDIS NX includes smart functionality to simplify routines aboard such as a new Quick Access bar which allows one-click-access to frequently used functions such as chart settings, EBL/VRM, ZOOM and more, with users able to hide and unhide further panels with indications or operation control. Smart-enabled, route planning has been converted to a wizard-guided process with drag-and-drop for waypoints, alongside a self-explaining route manager with comprehensive voyage planning tools. The additional INS functions—available for stand-alone systems—evaluate the data within the navigation system and provide the operator with consistent, distinct and validated information, while preventing distraction by unnecessary alarms.

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